Twin River Dairy Farm.
Greendot.
Project partner: Te Ara Kākāriki
Twin River Dairy Farm has completed a multi year restoration of a 2 ha wetland and riparian zone at the Hororata / Selwyn confluence. Delivered in four volunteer led planting stages, the project established over 1,300 indigenous plants. Supported by the Environmental Management Fund (EMF) and guided by Te Ara Kākāriki, the deep rooted native vegetation intercepts and filters spring water, stabilises riverbanks and forges a continuous habitat corridor for kōwaro mudfish and native birdlife.
Dan Cameron in the role of planting advisor front footed the restoration project, along with planting assistance from the Kids Discovery Plant Out project through Lou Drage at Te Ara Kakariki and Rolleston Christian School, plus the super bunch of Urban Young Farmers.
Impact.
- Sediment and Nutrient Filtration: Deep root networks trap sediment and filter pollutants from spring fed water.
- Bank Stabilisation: Extensive vegetation cover reduces erosion and strengthens riparian slopes.
- Habitat Connectivity: Creates an unbroken corridor linking upstream springs to downstream waterways, boosting kōwaro mudfish and bird populations.
- Community Stewardship: Four volunteer planting phases foster local engagement and long-term site care.
- Ecological Resilience: Establishes a self-sustaining native buffer that supports mahinga kai and catchment health.
